The Russian-Ukraine War and the Uses of Naval Mines in the Black Sea: The Legal Consequences in Turkey

Stray mines in the Black Sea (BS) have sparked substantial debates. Despite the various areas of concern, this matter also warrants a legal perspective. Given that Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine are the primary countries significantly involved, each has developed a distinct legal personality under international law. Therefore, it is important to refer to international law to elucidate this complex issue. This study examines the legal intricacies of the stray mine situation in the BS region by focusing on legal aspects. It also considers other relevant factors, particularly the potential legal implications for Turkey. In the context of this study, we argue that Turkey's geopolitical position, along with its international commitments, places it in a significant role and brings it into close engagement with other nations, especially amid the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. In this study, I will discuss the general framework of international law governing the use of naval mines in international conflicts, particularly in the event of war between Russia and Ukraine. Despite the existence of international customs, several international agreements, including the International Montreux Convention concerning the Strait of Istanbul, play a substantial role in this issue.